Sanders Throws Support Behind Adelita Grijalva in Key Southern Arizona Congressional Battle

U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders has officially backed Adelita Grijalva, a Democrat running to succeed her late father, Raul Grijalva, in a special election set for this summer in Southern Arizona. Former Arizona legislator Daniel Hernandez is also gaining momentum in the Democratic primary, receiving support from two fellow Congress members. In contrast, the Republican side has struggled to attract high-profile endorsements.

“We need leaders who have the backbone to challenge the elite,” Sanders stated in a Tuesday announcement. He expressed pride in endorsing Grijalva, highlighting her dedication to grassroots movements and her commitment to fighting corporate greed that affects everyday life, such as rising costs of groceries and housing. Sanders emphasized her role in advocating for Medicare for All and climate justice during her time in Washington.

Raul Grijalva, who passed away in March after being elected to his 12th term, was known as the first House member to endorse Sanders’ 2016 presidential campaign. Adelita Grijalva was actively involved in a recent event, the Fighting Oligarchy tour in Tucson, which featured Sanders and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Since launching her campaign on March 31, Grijalva has amassed numerous endorsements, outperforming other candidates. In addition to Sanders, she has secured backing from Arizona Senators Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly, along with various local leaders, including Tucson Mayor Regina Romero.

Support for Grijalva extends to several city council members and members of the Pima County Board of Supervisors. Recently, she announced endorsements from Yuma County officials, further solidifying her coalition.

State legislators, including Senators Priya Sundareshan and Rosanna Gabaldon, also support her campaign. Other notable endorsements come from various tribal leaders and local school board members, indicating a broad base of local support.

Grijalva has garnered the endorsement of numerous organizations, ranging from labor unions to advocacy groups focused on immigration and LGBTQ+ rights. She expressed gratitude for the coalition, highlighting her commitment to inclusivity and progressive change.

On the other hand, Daniel Hernandez, who has a background in local education policy and experience in the Arizona House of Representatives, is also a strong candidate. He has secured notable endorsements from state lawmakers and local officials, establishing a solid foundation for his campaign.

Among Hernandez’s supporters are prominent Arizona figures such as Nogales Mayor Jorge Maldonado and former local leaders. His campaign focuses on community-rooted support rather than national endorsements, an angle his strategists emphasize as a strength.

New to the race, Gen Z influencer Deja Foxx, who previously supported Kamala Harris in her presidential bid, is also vying for a Democratic nomination. Meanwhile, candidates like Jose Malvido and Patrick Harris have yet to secure any endorsements.

The winner of the Democratic primary on July 15 will face the Republican candidate in the general election scheduled for September 23. The Republican front-runner, Daniel Butierez, has managed to gather support from several local officials and organizations, setting up a competitive contest.

Congressional District 7, which includes parts of Tucson, Yuma, and several border towns, has a significant Democratic voter base, posing challenges for the GOP nominee. Despite this, several write-in candidates and a diverse slate of candidates are expected to contribute to a dynamic electoral landscape.